After a slow start abetted in part by his offseason injury and the shortened training camp, Asik's role is increasing again down the stretch. He played well in last season's playoff run, particularly with his ability to protect the rim defensively and free shooters with bone-jarring screens offensively.

"That's a part of his game that gets overlooked a lot," Thibodeau said. "He's not a good screener. He's a great screener. When you come off Omer, you're open, whether it's catch-and-shoot or pick-and-roll.

"He's a big-time multiple effort guy. Often he will set a pick-and-roll and then fly back out if there's nothing there to set another one. He keeps going. He adds a lot to our offense."

Just think how much he will add if his hands improve.

Forward thinking: Thibodeau said the Bulls are doing advance work on all potential first-round playoff opponents, a long list that includes the Knicks, 76ers, Bucks and even the long shot Magic.

"You have to, especially with the way the playoffs are structured," he said. "You have only one day between the end of the season and the playoffs."